For a very long time fashion has become perceived to be something foreign and not African. However, the scene has been evolving fast as with the election of President Obama the Afro American community is becoming more aware of their style. The African American community is involving in the fashion of Africa especially to remind themselves of their rich and diverse heritage. The roots of African fashion can be traced back to centuries previously. Whether you consider the vibrant sisal skirts that are an important part of African dances to the Kanga which is now an iconic fashion garment, African fashion is being featured on the fashion ramps around the world. Recently the fashion scene in Africa is now quite lively with runway shows occurring over a frequent basis with African designers competing with the level of international designers.
Fashion using a purpose is the main theme of all of these fashion shows which attract a number of fashion enthusiasts from all over the world. Fashion is a big part of the African popular culture where some designers have strong following with celebrities and public personalities. These celebrities include well known names like Oprah Winfrey, Beyonce, Solange Knowles and Will Smith to but a few. It is not just the celebrities but also the common masses who have embraced African fashion to help look good. Men are also equally fashion conscious and many of them are already taken in by African fashion garments.
Aside from this the Miss World beauty pageant in addition has contributed to the growth from the African fashion industry. For the reason that the representatives from the African countries turn towards local designers to acheive their ensembles designed. This has caused the African designers for being popular all over the world. African fashion has essentially become the signature preference for men and women who wish to express themselves through their clothing. Almost all of the African designers also have understood how to successfully combine western styles with African ones and make authentic and original garments. It has resulted in a fashion scene that's vibrant and colorful and all the richer due to this combination.
The clothes created by African fashion brands are also easily available globally, in fact they are available online popular stores dedicated to African fashion as well as via some own branded internet vendors. This has enabled the worldwide community not from the 'African' community to be able to express their liking for original and authentic designs and styles based on traditional African fashion.